Land Rover celebrates 70 years with the launch of the Defender Works V8

After killing off the Defender ready for its replacement, Land Rover have resurrected a limited amount as the rather special Defender Works V8. Up to 150 examples re-engineered to celebrate the Land Rover marque’s 70thanniversary in 2018, creating a limited-edition high-performance version of the iconic Defender.

The Defender Works V8 pays homage to the high-powered V8 engines in both the Series III Stage 1 V8 from 1979 and later Defenders including the 50th Anniversary Edition, which are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors today.

The 5.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol V8 produces 405PS and 515 Nm of torque compared to the standard Defender delivering 122PS and 360 Nm. 0-60mph is reached in 5.6sec, while top speed is increased to 106mph. The Defender Works V8 will be the most powerful and fastest version that Land Rover has ever created.

Tim Hannig, Jaguar Land Rover Classic Director, said: “It’s fitting that we’ve been able to release the full potential of the iconic Defender, whose much-loved shape remains synonymous with Land Rover, 70 years since it was seen in public for the first time."

“The idea of reintroducing a V8 Defender was something we were discussing as far back as 2014, when we were still building the Defender in Solihull. We knew the demand was there for a powerful and fast Defender; the Land Rover authenticity is the ultimate finishing touch for discerning clients purchasing these collector’s edition Defenders.”

The inside has also been uprated with full Windsor Leather interior trim which covers the dashboard, door panels, headlining and Recaro sports seats. Also fitted is Land Rover Classic’s own Classic Infotainment System.

Both 90 and 110 wheelbase Defender Works V8 derivatives will be available to purchase direct from Land Rover Classic, with prices starting from £150,000 for a 90 in the UK.

A select number of high-performance upgrades inspired by Defender Works V8 will also be available to purchase soon from Land Rover Classic, including power upgrades for the TDCi diesel engine, fast-road suspension and braking kits - could this be to compete with Kahn and other aftermarket companies?

Now we just have to wait for the all new Defender to see if it can live up to its name.